Spyderco Forums

Of historical interest, I would like to see a photo of this "Portable Hand" device that was an early product of Sal's circa 1976, which gave the name "Spyderco" to the company. Reportedly it looks like a spider. I did a google image search and came up with nothing.

http://spyderco.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13193

http://spyderco.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1296

This a photo of the device appeared in "The Spyderco Story", the book that was published in 2001 on the history of Spyderco.

Here's a pic from the thread listed above:


I've been looking for a Spyderco Portable Hand on eBay for quite some time now. So far, none have shown up.

Can some one kindly explain what the intended function/use of this "portable hand"?

According to the book, the device was aimed at helping people working with and assembling small parts (like computer circuit boards). The clips hold the parts and can be precisely positioned.

Huh that's a pretty creepy looking invention. Imagine it dangling over your bed while you sleep....hand spreading apart...alligator clips slowly opening... :eek: :D

I *knew* some of Spyderco's designs were inspired by Decepticon technology.

I expected it to look more like this (it's called a "third hand" and is very handy when soldering); but that does look more "spider-like".

swingshot wrote:I *knew* some of Spyderco's designs were inspired by Decepticon technology.

hahahaha good one swingshot... :D

I think there should be a "Portable Hand" sprint run.

-Jay

Jay_Ev wrote:I think there should be a "Portable Hand" sprint run.

-Jay

great idea...I'd love one in Spyderedge!! :eek: :D

Agent Starling

I need a hand :) )

that hand is creepy as f**k... i had no idea

lmao at the sprint run hand!!!

the "Portable Hand" was an "invention pilot" that Gail and I wanted to go through. The project was; to invent an funtional tool, patent it, design it, build it ourselves, market and sell the product. We welded up the parts while on the road on campground benches and motel rooms. We sold them mail order and at shows.

Our 2nd invention, the Sharpmaker, overpowered the portable hand and we didn't have enough time to do both, so we disco'd the portable hand.

sal

You second invention was something as legendary as the Sharpmaker? Wow! Just Wow!

Ken

sal wrote:the "Portable Hand" was an "invention pilot" that Gail and I wanted to go through. The project was; to invent an funtional tool, patent it, design it, build it ourselves, market and sell the product. We welded up the parts while on the road on campground benches and motel rooms. We sold them mail order and at shows.

Our 2nd invention, the Sharpmaker, overpowered the portable hand and we didn't have enough time to do both, so we disco'd the portable hand.

sal

So, sprint run in S90V? Or would the cost of a new welding vehicle outweigh the profits? :p

:D

Little bit of Necromancy here, but I want that thing, looks awesome.
Maybe for 50th aniversary in 2026 a historical run? :)

I'm enjoying ham radio now and that would really come in handy. Yes, pun intended. :D

Maybe we can get a Damascus sprint with carbon fiber clips :D

Does anyone else think there should be a horror movie called "Sal's Portable Hand"?